The good news is that the 49ers have a young player who already shows strong leadership skills and he wants to put in the hard work necessary to get over the top in 2013 and future seasons.

“I never had to concern myself with that because the players we have, the coaches we have. They're already back in the building,” Harbaugh said. “Justin Smith is already, arm in a sling, champing at the bit to get back. Colin Kaepernick is already working out, pulling chains. So it's not a challenge for me.”

Soon, Kaepernick can begin throwing to new wide receiver Anquan Boldin, something the veteran addition said he is looking forward to doing. That is work that can help build toward this season too.

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